What tool should I use?

Having the right tools for your DIY projects makes the job easier, gets it done faster and usually with better results. Here are a few common problems and the right tools to get them done.

Drilling into bricks

The trick with drilling into bricks isn’t so much with the drill; it’s with the right drill bit to use. Masonry drill bits have a hardened tungsten tip that will handle going into brick, concrete or stone. A regular drill bit will quickly become blunt. Make sure you switch your drill to the hammer setting to make the job a lot easier.

Cutting in hard to reach places

Phil Aynsley

Cutting either metal or timber in a corner can be very frustrating as it’s hard to get a power tool in there to do the job. That’s where the multi tool comes into its own. The blade protrudes out from the front of the machine to get into those hard to reach spots. They are also interchangeable so you can swap the blade to suit the material you’re cutting. Multi tools also come with a range of other attachments such as sanding pads and scrapers, making the tool even more versatile.

Getting a grip

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During your projects, you’ll often need more grip than your fingers can provide. For small items, a pair of pliers is the tool. For larger items move up to a pair of multi grips. The adjustable jaws allow you to grip a much wider range of objects. The long handles give you better leverage for greater holding power or to turn something if needed. For keeping a grip without having to hold the tool, use vice grips. They lock into position leaving your hands free to get on with something else.

Removing a stripped screw

Just because your screwdriver can’t get a grip on a screw that has had the head stripped, it doesn’t mean it’s in there forever. The Grabit tool fits into your drill and is specially designed for pulling them out. One end reshapes the head of the screw, while the other end grips onto the head of the screw and pulls it out.